JP2009060442A - Image processing system and control method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

An image processing system and a control method for the image processing system that enable appropriate charging even when any image processing apparatus in the system is linked.
The present invention relates to charging service information indicating whether or not a charging service for providing image formation by charging for each ID information for identifying a user is permitted in each image processing apparatus, and An image processing apparatus that is permitted for a charging service and that has the highest priority, using a priority table that sets the priority order of image processing apparatuses that store charging information after image formation, When the image processing apparatus is selected to store the charging information and the image formation is executed, the charging information indicating the contents of the executed image formation is transmitted to the selected image processing apparatus. Accumulate.
[Selection] Figure 8

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing system in which a plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected via a network, and a control method therefor.

  There has already been proposed a system that realizes a remote copy function in which image data is transferred from an image processing apparatus that scans a document and obtains image data to an image processing apparatus having a printing function via a network, and printing is performed. ing. In such a system, control for counting the number of printed sheets is usually performed on the printing apparatus side for billing or the like. In such a system, for example, a remote copy function can be realized by interconnecting a multi-function device having functions such as copying, printing, and faxing with a printer having only a printing function. It will be a big merit.

  However, for multi-function machines having a multi-function function, the number of printed sheets can be counted by a hard counter or a soft counter, but many single-function printers do not have a count function. Therefore, when reading an image from a multifunction peripheral and printing with a single function printer by the remote copy function, there is a problem that the count control cannot be performed normally.

Therefore, Patent Document 1 proposes a system that determines whether or not a charging control function is provided on the image reading side and the output side, and determines a device that performs charging control. For example, if both the reading side and the output side are provided with a charging control function, charging is performed only on the output side, and if only one is provided, charging is performed on the side provided, Double billing is suppressed.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-033868

  On the other hand, in recent offices or the like, in such a plurality of multifunction peripherals, a user inputs a user ID together with a password at an operation unit to permit use of a copy function and perform charging control. As a result, the administrator who manages the multifunction peripheral can restrict operations related to charging performed by other departments or external users.

  However, in the system according to the prior art, the user only determines the device to be charged based on the presence or absence of the charging control function, and the charging function is the same even when the above-mentioned other departments or external users use the remote copying function. Will be charged for a device having. Therefore, there is a problem that the administrator pays the amount charged for the copy service used by other departments or external users, and cannot charge the user who uses the service correctly.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and provides an image processing system and a control method thereof capable of appropriately charging even when any image processing apparatus in the system is linked. The purpose is to do.

  The present invention can be realized, for example, as an image processing system in which a plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected via a network and the plurality of image processing apparatuses cooperate to form an image. The image processing system is a service that indicates whether or not each image processing apparatus is permitted to provide a service for providing image formation by counting the usage amount so as to be chargeable for each ID information for identifying a user. A storage unit storing a priority table in which priorities of image processing apparatuses that store information and count information based on the contents of image formation after image formation is stored, and services corresponding to user ID information Count destination selection means for selecting an image processing apparatus having a high priority and an image processing apparatus for which service is permitted using the information and priority table as an image processing apparatus for storing count information; When image formation is executed in cooperation with the other image processing apparatuses, count information is transmitted to the selected image processing apparatus, thereby Characterized in that it comprises a counting information accumulating means for accumulating information.

  Further, the present invention can be realized as a control method of an image processing system in which a plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected via a network and the plurality of image processing apparatuses cooperate to form an image. In the control method, for each ID information for identifying a user, service information indicating whether or not a service that provides image formation is permitted in each image processing apparatus by counting the usage amount so as to be chargeable. And an image processing apparatus for which a service is permitted using a priority table in which priorities of image processing apparatuses for storing count information based on the contents of image formation after image formation is executed, and The step of selecting an image processing apparatus having a high priority as an image processing apparatus for accumulating the count information, and when the image formation is executed, the contents of the executed image formation are indicated to the selected image processing apparatus. The step of accumulating the count information is performed by transmitting the indicated count information.

  The present invention can provide, for example, an image processing system and a control method therefor that can be charged appropriately regardless of which image processing apparatus in the system is linked.

  An embodiment of the present invention is shown below. The individual embodiments described below will help to understand various concepts, such as superordinate concepts, intermediate concepts and subordinate concepts of the present invention. Further, the technical scope of the present invention is determined by the scope of the claims, and is not limited by the following individual embodiments.

[First Embodiment]
<Configuration of image processing system>
Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system 100 according to the first embodiment. The image processing system 100 described below is an application example, and the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the image processing system 100 according to the present invention may be configured to include other devices.

  The image processing system 100 includes a plurality of image processing apparatuses such as multi-function printers (hereinafter referred to as MFP) 10, 20, and 40 and single function printers (hereinafter referred to as SFP) 30. Furthermore, each image processing apparatus is connected via a network 500. The MFPs 10, 20, and 40 are multifunction machines having functions such as copying, printing, facsimile, and scanner. Further, the SFP 30 has only a printing function. Further, the MFPs 10, 20, and 40 described below have a charging control function for charging for the executed service (refers to a function for accumulating information that counts the number of printed sheets so as to enable charging). . However, it is assumed that the SFP 30 is not provided with a charging control function. Here, the executed service means copying, printing, facsimile, scanner, or the like.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, the control configuration of the MFPs 10, 20, 40 and the SFP 30 will be described. FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. In the following, since the control configurations of the MFPs 10, 20, and 40 are the same, only the description of the MFP 10 will be described.

  The MFP 10 includes a scanner unit 1000 and a printer unit 2000 as shown in FIG. 2A. The scanner unit 1000 includes a scanner 1008, an operation unit 1009, and a scanner control unit 1100. Note that an operation unit (for example, a touch panel) 1009 includes various switches for operation by a user (user), an LED display, and the like, and functions as a display device and an input device.

  A scanner control unit 1100 controls the scanner 1008 in an integrated manner. Further, the scanner control unit 1100 receives image data scanned by the scanner 1008 as a video signal, performs image processing, and then sends the image data to the printer unit 2000 via the internal I / O 1010. The image data sent to the printer unit 2000 is subjected to image processing and printed. Further, it is sent to the network 500 via the external I / O 2012 and sent to another MFP or SFP.

  The scanner control unit 1100 includes a CPU 1001, a RAM 1002, a program ROM 1004, a data ROM 1005, an image processing unit 1011, a scanner unit I / F 1007, and an internal I / O 1010. These components are connected by a system bus 1012.

  The CPU 1001 comprehensively controls various devices connected to the system bus 1012 based on a control program for performing processing and the like stored in the program ROM 1004, a control program stored in the RAM 1002, and the like. The CPU 1001 functions as a count destination selection unit, a count information storage unit, an authentication unit, a display control unit, an output destination selection unit, and a prohibition unit. Each means will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The data ROM 1005 functions as a storage unit, and stores a priority table 1006 for determining a device to be charged as data. Further, in the data ROM 1005, service information indicating whether or not each printer is permitted to provide a service that provides a printing function by counting the ID information for identifying the user so as to be charged. Remembered. A RAM 1002 is a RAM that functions as a main memory, a work area, or the like of the CPU 1001. The RAM 1002 includes a charging setting buffer 1003. The billing setting buffer 1003 has a billing setting buffer 1003 for storing settings for controlling a billing counter for a billing log when printing (including remote copy) ends. In the charging setting buffer 1003, charging information (count information) including at least the printing mode type, the type of recording material (paper) used for printing, and the number of recording materials used (used amount) is set. The Here, the printing mode type indicates, for example, monochrome printing or color printing. Further, the type of recording material may include, for example, the type of recording material such as plain paper, thick paper, gloss paper, and the size of recording material such as A4 and B5. The number of recording materials used for printing desirably represents the number of recording materials that have been printed normally. In addition to the number of sheets, the number of faces (the number of faces is 1 for single-sided printing and the number of faces is 2 for double-sided printing) may be used. Further, the above billing information does not necessarily have to be used for billing, and may be count information indicating who used what process and how much.

  A scanner unit I / F 1007 captures image data of an image scanned by the scanner 1008 into the scanner control unit 1100. The image processing unit 1011 performs at least one of image processing such as data compression, resolution conversion, enlargement / reduction, clipping, and multi-value / binary conversion on the image data input via the scanner unit I / F 1007. Perform one process. Thereafter, the image data subjected to the image processing by the image processing unit 1011 is transmitted to the printer unit 2000 described later via the internal I / O 1010.

  The printer unit 2000 acquires and stores print information (image data) or the like supplied from the network 500 or the internal I / O 1010 in the scanner unit 1000, and forms an image corresponding to the print information on a recording material. The printer unit 2000 includes an external memory 2008, a printing unit 2010, an operation unit (panel) 2011, and a printer control unit 2100. The operation panel 2011 includes various switches for operation by a user, an LED display, and the like.

  The printer control unit 2100 comprehensively controls the print function of the MFP 10 and analyzes print information supplied from an external device. Further, the printer control unit 2100 converts the character pattern corresponding to the character information into a video signal and transmits it to the printing unit 2010. The printer control unit 2100 includes a CPU 2001, a RAM 2002, a program ROM 2003, a data ROM 2004, a memory controller (MC) 2007, a printing unit interface (I / F) 2009, an internal I / O 2006, and an external I / O 2012. Each component is connected by a system bus 2013.

  The CPU 2001 comprehensively controls various devices connected to the system bus 2013 on the basis of a control program for performing processing described later stored in the program ROM 2003, a control program stored in the external memory 2008, and the like. Further, the CPU 2001 outputs an image signal to the printing unit 2010 connected via the printing unit interface 2009 and causes the printing unit 2010 to execute printing. In the data ROM 2004, charging counter information 2005 is stored as log information of a charging service performed by the MFP.

  The printer unit 2000 can communicate with the scanner unit 1000 via the internal I / O 2006, and communicate with other MFPs 20 and 40 and the SFP 30 via the external I / O 2012 and the network 500. A RAM 2002 is a RAM that functions as a main memory or a work area of the CPU 2001. A memory controller (MC) 2007 controls access to the external memory 2008.

  FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of the SFP 30 according to the first embodiment. The MFP 10 includes a scanner unit 1000 and a printer unit 3000 as shown in FIG. 2A. Unlike the printer unit 2000 shown in FIG. 2A, the printer unit 3000 does not have a portion corresponding to the internal I / O 2006, and image data to be printed is always input from the network 500 via the external I / O 3012.

  The printer unit 3000 includes an external memory 3008, a printing unit 3010, an operation unit (panel) 3011, and a printer control unit 3100. Note that the operation panel 3011 includes various switches for operation by a user, an LED display, and the like.

  The printer control unit 3100 comprehensively controls the printing function of the SFP 30 and analyzes print information and the like supplied from an external device. Further, the printer control unit 3100 converts a character pattern corresponding to the character information into a video signal and transmits it to the printing unit 3010. The printer control unit 3100 includes a CPU 3001, a RAM 3002, a program ROM 3003, a data ROM 3004, a memory controller (MC) 3007, a printing unit interface (I / F) 3009, and an external I / O 3012. Each component is connected by a system bus 3013.

  The CPU 3001 comprehensively controls various devices connected to the system bus 3013 based on a control program for performing processing described later stored in the program ROM 3003, a control program stored in the external memory 3008, and the like. In addition, the CPU 3001 outputs an image signal to the printing unit 3010 connected via the printing unit interface 3009 and causes the printing unit 3010 to execute printing. In the data ROM 3004, charging counter information 3005 is stored as log information of the charging service performed by the SFP. The RAM 3002 is a RAM that functions as a main memory, work area, or the like of the CPU 3001. A memory controller (MC) 3007 controls access to the external memory 2008.

<Remote copy operation>
Next, with reference to FIGS. 3A to 8, a remote copy operation that is a feature of the present embodiment will be described. In the remote copy described below, an example in which image data is read from the MFP 10 and remote copy output (printing) is performed by the MFP 20 will be described.

  FIG. 3A is a diagram showing an operation mode input screen 310 in the operation unit 1009 of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. The operation mode input screen 310 is displayed on the operation unit 1009 after the power is turned on. On the operation mode input screen 310, it is selected whether the operation is a “remote service” operation that is a job performed in cooperation with another network device or a “local service” operation that is a job performed by the device that is performing the operation itself. An area is displayed. This area is a soft key that can be selected by being pressed.

  The present embodiment is premised on a remote service operation in which output is performed from another device (MFP 20, 40 or SFP 30) connected via the network 500. Therefore, the OK button 301 is pressed after the user presses the button 300 and selects “Remote Service”. Thereafter, the CPU 1001 displays an ID input screen 320 illustrated in FIG. 3B on the operation unit 1009.

  FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an ID input screen 320 on the operation unit 1009 of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. The ID input screen 320 is displayed when “Remote Service” is selected on the operation mode input screen 310. On the ID input screen 320, when the user inputs each information into the user ID area 302 and the password area 303 using a numeric keypad on the operation unit 1009 (not shown), and the OK button 304 is pressed, the operation screen is displayed and the operation is performed. Is possible. Switching between the ID input area 302 and the password input area 303 may be performed by, for example, directly pressing the input area. The CPU 1001 performs authentication by determining whether or not the input user ID (ID information) and password are stored in its own data ROM 1005. However, according to the present embodiment, even if the user ID and password corresponding to its own data ROM 1005 are not stored, the CPU 1001 requests authentication from another device via the network 500. Specifically, the CPU 1001 determines whether or not the user ID and password are stored in another device connected to the network 500. Here, when the user ID and password are not stored in all the devices on the network 500, the CPU 1001 displays an error screen 330 shown in FIG. 3C to notify an unknown user that the authentication has failed. indicate.

  FIG. 3C is a diagram showing an error screen 330 on the operation unit 1009 of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. The CPU 1001 displays an error screen 330 on the operation unit 1009 when the user ID or password is entered incorrectly, or when the user ID is not registered in all devices arranged in the network 500 as described above. . For example, a message “Invalid ID or Password” is displayed on the error screen 330. In this case, the display may be changed to the ID input screen 320 again by pressing the confirmation key 305.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the ID authority information 400 according to the first embodiment. The image processing system 100 holds ID authority information (user ID management information) 400 that is charging service information for each device for each user ID. This ID authority information 400 is managed, for example, in the data ROM 1005 of the MFP 10. It is also managed in the data ROM of other MFPs 20, 40 and SFP 30.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the ID authority information 400 is managed for each user ID, and is a local device (here, the MFP 10) or another device (here, the MFP 20, the SFP 30, the MFP 40) via the network 500. The charging service 402 permitted in (1) is held. Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the charging service includes a copy / print function (Copy / Print), a transmission function (Send), a remote copy function (RemoteService), and the like.

  Specifically, the ID authority information 400 holds restriction information of the charging service 402 for each device type 401. “◯” in the figure indicates that the corresponding charging service 402 is permitted. On the other hand, “-” in the figure indicates that the corresponding charging service 402 is prohibited. Therefore, with the user ID shown in FIG. 4, the remote copy service is permitted in the MFP 10 and the MFP 40 which are local devices. In the MFP 20, all services are permitted. In the SFP 30, all services are prohibited. Each device restricts the user's use of the image processing system 100 based on the ID authority information 400.

  FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an operation screen 510 displayed after user authentication according to the first embodiment. In the following description, only the part related to the present invention will be described. On the operation screen 510, a logout key 509 and remote service keys 501, 502, 503, and 504 are displayed.

  A logout key 509 is a key for the user to log out from the login state after authentication. Each remote service key (501 to 504) is a soft key displayed on a touch panel for executing each remote service (billing service). When the remote service key 501 is pressed, remote copy is executed. Similarly, when the remote service key 502 is pressed, the facsimile function is executed. When the remote service key 503 is pressed, the read image is transmitted. Further, when the remote service key 504 is pressed, the read image is saved.

  When the remote service key 501 is selected, the CPU 1001 displays a selection screen 520 shown in FIG. 5B on the operation unit 1009. FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a selection screen 520 displayed when remote copy is selected. As shown in FIG. 5B, the selection screen 520 displays a list of printers as output destination candidates. Here, when remote copy is selected on the operation screen 510, the CPU 1001 may display only the printers that can be output stored in the ID authority information 400 corresponding to the user ID on the selection screen 520. Further, the CPU 1001 may display all the devices in the network 500, and may display a warning display such as “This device cannot be serviced” when the user selects a device for which remote copying is prohibited.

  As shown in FIG. 5B, the selection screen 520 displays an area, a device name, a print mode, and the like, and further displays a selection button 505 and an OK button 506 for each device. Therefore, the user can select the output destination printer by pressing the selection button 505 and can determine by pressing the OK button 506.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 5B, when “MFP 20” is selected by the user, a billing control that presets a count enable command (count increment command) for controlling a billing log counter at the end of the copying operation. Will be described.

  When “MFP 20” is set, the CPU 1001 confirms the priority table 1006 stored in the data ROM 1005. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the contents of the priority table 600 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, according to the present embodiment, the billing target is set in advance with priority.

  The priority table 600 stores device types in order of priority 601. This priority table 600 is used to determine a billing device after the service is completed. Here, the smaller the number of priorities, the higher the priorities. Accordingly, the priority order 601 shown in FIG. 6 includes an output device (printer that executes printing), a local device (printer that inputs image data to be printed), and a cooperation device (other printers connected to the network 500, It is also called a network device.) That is, the CPU 1001 first determines whether or not the output device having the first priority (here, the MFP 20) has the authority of the user ID. Specifically, the CPU 1001 determines whether or not the user ID of the user is held in the data ROM of the MFP 20. If the MFP 20 does not have the authority of the user ID, it is determined whether or not the local device having the second priority has the authority of the user ID. As a result, even when both the output device and the local device have the authority of the user ID, charging control described later can be performed by one device according to the priority order, and double charging or the like can be prevented. . In addition, when such a priority table 600 is held, it is possible to easily change the priority order of devices to be charged by changing the priority table 600.

  Here, based on the ID authority information 400 shown in FIG. When the charging destination device is determined, the CPU 1001 sets the IP address of the output printer and the count enable command in the charging setting buffer 1003 as the count enable command from the priority table 1006.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing internal information of the accounting setting buffer 700 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the accounting setting buffer 700 includes, for example, an accounting destination IP address 701, service contents 702, a printing mode 703 indicating color printing or monochrome printing, and the number of printed sheets 704. Have information. The number of printed sheets 704 is updated and stored after the user sets the number of printed sheets. Information stored in the buffer together with the charging counter enable command is transmitted to the device set as the transmission destination when the copying operation is completed by the charging setting buffer 700. This makes it possible to appropriately update the charging counter information on the receiving side and accumulate the charging information.

  As described above, when the user completes the setting of the output printer and a predetermined count enable command is set in the charging setting buffer 1003 in the MFP 10, the CPU 1001 displays the confirmation screen 530 shown in FIG. 5C on the operation unit 1009. . FIG. 5C is a diagram showing a confirmation screen 530 for executing the remote service. On the confirmation screen 530, an “Output Printer MFP 20” display 507 indicating that “MFP 20” has been selected and a Start key 508 are displayed.

  When the selection of the remote copy printer is completed and the Start key 508 is pressed, the CPU 1001 causes the scanner unit 1000 to read the document and sends it to the designated printer unit 2000 of the MFP 20 via the external I / O 2012. Send image data. The MFP 20 performs printing according to the received image data. When printing ends, the MFP 20 notifies the scanner unit 1000 of the MFP 10 via the network 500 of a copy end command indicating that the remote copy operation has ended. Thereafter, the scanner unit 1000 transmits a count enable command to the MFP 20 serving as an output device based on the information in the accounting setting buffer 1003 set previously. The MFP 20 receives the count enable command via the external I / O 2012, and increments the counter stored in the charging counter information in the printer unit by the number of printed sheets.

  If an error occurs due to a paper jam or the like during remote copying and the copying operation is interrupted, the MFP 20 transmits error information to the MFP 10 via the external I / O and the network 500. When the error information is received, the CPU 1001 displays on the operation unit 1009 that the remote copy has not ended normally. In this case, it is desirable to keep the information of the count enable command stored in advance in the accounting setting buffer 1003 before executing the remote copy operation as it is. This is because when the user executes the remote copy operation again and completes normally, a count enable command is similarly transmitted to the MFP 20. When the user cancels the remote copy operation job, the CPU 1001 clears the count enable information stored in the charging setting buffer 1003.

  Next, a series of processing procedures of the remote copy service will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the remote copy service according to the first embodiment. Note that the processing described below assumes that remote copy is selected on the operation screen 510. A flow described below shows a processing procedure according to the priority table 600.

  In step S801, the CPU 1001 acquires the user ID and password input from the operation unit 1009 by the user. Subsequently, in step S802, the CPU 1001 functions as an authentication unit, and authenticates the user by determining whether or not the acquired user ID is stored in the data ROM 1005 in advance. Here, when the input user ID is not stored in the data ROM 1005, the CPU 1001 has a user ID for another printer (in this case, the MFP 20, 40, SFP 30) connected via the network 500. It is determined whether or not it is stored. Specifically, the CPU 1001 functions as a transmission unit, and transmits the input user ID to another printer via the network 500. The CPU 1001 on the other printer side functions as a reply unit, determines whether or not the user ID transmitted to its own data ROM 1005 is stored, and returns the determination result to the printer that transmitted the user ID. That is, in the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, even if the user ID of the user is not stored in the printer used by the user, is it stored in another printer arranged in the system? By determining whether or not, the entire system is authenticated. If the input user ID is unknown in the entire system, the CPU 1001 shifts the process to step S803. In step S <b> 803, the CPU 1001 displays an error screen 330 for notifying the user of login disapproval on the operation unit 1009 and ends the process. Here, the CPU 1001 functions as a prohibiting unit.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful, in step S804, the CPU 1001 sets an output destination printer to execute printing. Specifically, the CPU 1001 uses the charging service information stored in the data ROM 1005 to generate a selection screen 520 for allowing the user to select an output destination printer and display the selection screen 520 on the operation unit 1009. Here, the CPU 1001 functions as a display control unit. Furthermore, the CPU 1001 selects a printer that performs printing from information input to the input device of the operation unit 1009 via the selection screen 520 by the user. Here, the information input to the input device is, for example, information indicating that the selection button 505 displayed on the selection screen 520 in FIG. 5B has been selected. The CPU 1001 functions as an output destination selection unit.

  When a printer that performs printing is selected, the CPU 1001 determines a printer that accumulates accounting information. In step S805, the CPU 1001 first determines from the ID authority information stored in the data ROM 1005 whether or not the accounting service is permitted by the user ID corresponding to the output device (the printer selected in S804). Here, the reason why the charging service is first permitted in the output device is that the highest priority is set in the priority table 600. Therefore, the CPU 1001 acquires the priority table 600 and the ID authority information from the data ROM 1005 and determines the order of determination. If permitted, the process proceeds to S806, and if not permitted, the process proceeds to S809.

  In step S806, the CPU 1001 determines that charging information is to be accumulated on the output device side, and executes remote copy. Specifically, the CPU 1001 reads image data from an original with the scanner 1008, and transmits the read image data to the output device via the network 500. The printer on the output side performs printing according to the transmitted image data. Further, when printing ends normally, the output-side printer transmits a notification indicating normal end to the printer that has read the image data. In addition, when printing ends abnormally, the output-side printer may transmit a notification to that effect to the reading-side printer. When the printer that executes printing and the printer that accumulates charging information are determined, the CPU 1001 sets the IP address of the output device and the set count number in the charging setting buffer 1003.

  In step S <b> 807, the CPU 1001 determines whether printing has ended normally by determining whether a notification indicating normal termination has been transmitted. If the CPU 1001 determines that printing has not ended normally, the CPU 1001 shifts the process to S806 and executes printing again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the printing has been normally completed, the CPU 1001 shifts the process to S808.

  In step S808, the CPU 1001 accumulates the billing information by transmitting the billing information indicating the contents of the printing to the output device determined to store the billing information in step S805. Specifically, the CPU 1001 transmits the contents set in the charging setting buffer 1003 to the printer that stores the charging information. Here, the CPU 1001 functions as a billing information storage unit. The printer that accumulates the billing information updates the billing counter information 2005 stored in its own data ROM 2004 according to the transmitted information.

  If it is determined in step S805 that the billing service is not permitted in the output device, in step S809, the CPU 1001 determines whether the billing service is permitted in the local device. The local device indicates a printer that reads image data to be printed. That is, here, it refers to its own printer. If the charging service is permitted, the process proceeds to S810, and if it is not permitted, the process proceeds to S813.

  In step S810, the CPU 1001 determines that charging information is to be accumulated on the local device side, and executes remote copy. Specifically, the CPU 1001 reads image data from a document with the scanner 1008, and transmits the read image data to the output device via the network 500. The printer on the output side performs printing according to the transmitted image data. Further, when printing ends normally, the output-side printer transmits a notification indicating normal end to the printer that has read the image data. In addition, when printing ends abnormally, the output-side printer may transmit a notification to that effect to the reading-side printer. When the printer that executes printing and the printer that accumulates charging information are determined, the CPU 1001 sets the IP address of the output device and the set count number in the charging setting buffer 1003.

  In step S811, the CPU 1001 determines whether printing has ended normally by determining whether a notification indicating normal termination has been transmitted. If the CPU 1001 determines that printing has not ended normally, the CPU 1001 shifts the process to S810 and executes printing again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the printing has been normally completed, the CPU 1001 shifts the process to S812.

  In step S812, the CPU 1001 accumulates the billing information by transmitting the billing information indicating the contents of printing to the local device that has been determined to store the billing information in step S809. Accordingly, since the local device is its own printer, the billing counter information 2005 stored in its own data ROM 2004 is updated unlike S808.

  If it is determined in step S809 that the charging service is not permitted in the local device, in step S813, the CPU 1001 determines whether or not the charging service is permitted in the network device. The network device refers to a printer connected to the network 500 other than a printer that executes printing and a printer that reads image data to be printed. Here, if the charging service is permitted, the process proceeds to S814, and if it is not permitted, the process proceeds to S817.

  In step S814, the CPU 1001 determines that the billing information is stored on the network device side, and executes remote copy. Specifically, the CPU 1001 reads image data from a document with the scanner 1008, and transmits the read image data to the output device via the network 500. The printer on the output side performs printing according to the transmitted image data. Further, when printing ends normally, the output-side printer transmits a notification indicating normal end to the printer that has read the image data. In addition, when printing ends abnormally, the output-side printer may transmit a notification to that effect to the reading-side printer. When the printer that executes printing and the printer that accumulates charging information are determined, the CPU 1001 sets the IP address of the output device and the set count number in the charging setting buffer 1003.

  In step S815, the CPU 1001 determines whether printing has been normally completed by determining whether a notification indicating normal termination has been transmitted. If the CPU 1001 determines that printing has not ended normally, the CPU 1001 shifts the process to S814 and executes printing again. On the other hand, if the CPU 1001 determines that printing has ended normally, the CPU 1001 shifts the processing to S816.

  In step S816, the CPU 1001 accumulates the billing information by transmitting the billing information indicating the contents of printing to the network device that has been determined to store the billing information in step S813. Specifically, the CPU 1001 transmits the contents set in the charging setting buffer 1003 to the printer that stores the charging information. Here, the CPU 1001 functions as a billing information storage unit. The printer that accumulates the billing information updates the billing counter information 2005 stored in its own data ROM 2004 according to the transmitted information.

  If it is determined in step S813 that there is no printer for which the charging service is permitted among the network devices, in step S817, the CPU 1001 displays information indicating that the operation unit 1009 is not authorized, and ends the processing. To do. That is, the CPU 1001 determines that the charging service cannot be executed in all printers, prohibits printing, and ends the processing.

  As described above, the image processing system according to the present embodiment uses the charging service information and the priority table stored in advance to select an image processing apparatus that accumulates charging information for image formation. Specifically, the image processing system selects an image processing apparatus that is permitted to be charged and that has the highest priority as an image processing apparatus that accumulates charging information. This makes it possible to select an image processing apparatus for storing charging information in accordance with the priority order prescribed by the image processing system, regardless of the remote copy performed using any image processing apparatus. Can be accumulated. Further, since the charging service information is set for each user ID, the charging information can be appropriately stored regardless of which user uses it. Specifically, even when used by other departments or external users, appropriate charging information can be accumulated according to the priority order for each user ID. Therefore, the administrator who was the subject does not pay the charged amount for the copy service used by other departments or external users, and can charge the user who used the service correctly.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, the image processing system authenticates the user with a device used by the user, and performs authentication with another device in the system when the authentication fails. As a result, the image processing system can authenticate the entire system even when performing remote copy from a device without user ID authority, and can provide a user-friendly operation system.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 10C. This embodiment is characterized in that user authentication is performed using an ID card (IC card). The basic configuration of the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. In the following description, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of the MFP 20 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an ID card authentication screen 540 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a search screen 550 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10C is a diagram showing a search result screen 560 according to the second embodiment.

  The MFP 20 includes a card reader 900 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 2A. The card reader 900 functions as a reading unit and reads information on the inserted ID card. The ID card includes at least user ID information and password information. Accordingly, the user can perform authentication by inserting an ID card storing ID information into the card reader 900. When an ID card is inserted, the card reader 900 reads ID information from the ID card and notifies the scanner unit 1000 of the ID information.

  Hereinafter, the remote copy operation according to the present embodiment will be described. Here, an example in which image data is read from the MFP 20 and remote copy is output by the SFP 30 will be described. Note that, unlike the first embodiment, this embodiment is based on the premise that the ID authority information corresponding to the user ID read from the ID card is not stored in the reading device.

  First, as in FIG. 3A in the first embodiment, the CPU 1001 displays an operation mode input screen 310 on the operation unit 1009 after the power is turned on. Here, in the case assumed in this embodiment, since it is a remote service operation, the button 300 is pressed, and then the OK button 301 is pressed.

  When the OK button 301 is pressed, the CPU 1001 displays an ID card authentication screen 540 shown in FIG. 10A on the operation unit 1009. The ID card authentication screen 540 is displayed to prompt the user to insert the ID card into the card reader 900 attached to the MFP 20. When the ID card is inserted, the card reader 900 reads the user ID and password information held in the ID card. The CPU 1001 stores the read user ID and password in the RAM 1002. Subsequently, the CPU 1001 performs authentication using the read user ID and password.

  When the authentication is successful, the CPU 1001 displays an operation screen 510 illustrated in FIG. 5A on the operation unit 1009. Here, remote copy is selected. Here, unlike the first embodiment, the case assumed in the present embodiment is that the MFP 20 does not store ID authority information of the charging service for each device of each user ID in advance. Therefore, the CPU 1001 uses the user ID and password read from the ID card to search for a printer that can be distributed to a cooperating device via the network 500 and can be remotely copied. Here, the CPU 1001 displays a search screen 550 shown in FIG. 10B on the operation unit 1009.

  Each printer confirms the ID authority information for the notified user ID, determines whether remote copying is permitted in its own device, and notifies the determination result. In this case, the CPU 1001 may additionally display on the search screen 550 devices to be output at any time in the searched order.

  When the search for the output device is completed, the CPU 1001 displays the search result screen 560 of FIG. 10C. Here, when the user selects an output device with the selection button button 800 and the OK button 801 is pressed, the remote copy is executed. The charging control when “SFP30” is selected as shown in FIG. 10C will be described in detail.

  When “SFP30” is selected, the CPU 1001 of the MFP 20 collates the priority order set in the priority table 1006 with the ID authority information 400 corresponding to the user ID, and selects a printer for storing charging information. Since the output device selected here is SFP, the ID authority information 400 is not managed. Therefore, the ID authority information 400 on the local device side (transmission device) which is the second priority is confirmed according to the priority of the priority table.

  Here, the CPU 1001 sets the IP address of the MFP 20 and the count enable command in the charge setting buffer 1003 because the ID authority information is managed on the local device (MFP 20) side and has the authority to execute copy / print. When the output destination printer and the printer for storing the billing information are set in this way, the CPU 1001 displays a confirmation screen 530 shown in FIG. 5C on the operation unit 1009 as in the first embodiment. In the window indicated by reference numeral 507, “OutputPrinterSFP30” is displayed here. When the Start key 508 is pressed, the original is read by the scanner unit 1000 of the MFP 20 and image data read via the network 500 is transmitted to the SFP 30. Further, the SFP 30 executes printing according to the transmitted image data.

  When printing ends, the SFP 30 notifies the MFP 20 via the network 500 of a copy end command indicating that remote copying has ended. The CPU 1001 transmits a count enable command to its own printer unit 2000 together with information in the accounting setting buffer 1003. As a result, the counter of the charging counter information 2005 in the data ROM 2004 in the printer unit 2000 is incremented by a predetermined number of prints. On the other hand, as in the first embodiment, for example, when an error such as a paper jam occurs in the SFP 30, the CPU 1001 displays an error screen 330 on the operation unit 1009.

[Other Embodiments]
Next, another embodiment will be described. The configuration of the image processing system 100 according to the present embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 1 in the first embodiment, and the internal configuration is also the same as that of FIGS. Here, a remote copy operation when an image is read from the MFP 10 and output from the SFP 30 will be described. That is, in this embodiment, it is assumed that both the input device and the output device do not have authority information and copy authority corresponding to the input user ID.

  Similar to the first embodiment, in this embodiment, since the remote service operation is desired to cause the SFP 30 connected via the network 500 to perform printing, first, the button 300 is pressed on the operation mode input screen 310 and the OK button is pressed. 301 is pressed. Thereafter, similarly, the user inputs the user ID and password on the ID input screen 320.

  Further, as in the first embodiment, authentication is performed based on the contents of the user ID and password managed in the data ROM 1005 of the MFP 10. If the authentication is successful, the user logs in to the operation screen 510, and when a desired service is selected via the operation screen 510, the CPU 1001 displays a selection screen 520 to select an output destination. Here, the SFP 30 is selected as the output destination printer.

  When “SFP30” is selected, the CPU 1001 collates the priority order set in the priority table 1006 with the ID authority information 400 corresponding to the user ID, and selects a printer for storing charging information. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the selected output device is the SFP 30, but the ID authority information 400 is not managed. Therefore, according to the priority order of the priority table 1006, the ID authority information 400 on the local device side (transmission device) which is the second priority order is confirmed. However, the local device does not have copy / print authority corresponding to the input user ID. Therefore, the ID authority information 400 of the other cooperating device having the third priority is confirmed. In this case, the MFP 20 has the authority to execute copy / print for the input user ID. Therefore, the CPU 1001 sets the IP address of the MFP 20 and the count enable command in the accounting setting buffer 1003 as the count enable command.

  As described above, when the output destination device and the billing destination device are determined, the CPU 1001 causes the scanner unit 1000 to read a document when the Start key 508 is pressed, and the image data is sent to the SFP 30 via the network 500. Send to. When the image data is received, the SFP 30 executes printing. When the printing is finished, the SFP 30 notifies the MFP 10 of a copy end command indicating that the remote copy is finished. The CPU 1001 transmits information set in the charging setting buffer 1003 to the printer unit 2000 of the MFP 20 together with the count enable command. The printer unit 2000 of the MFP 20 increments the counter stored in the billing counter information 2005 by a predetermined number.

  Although various embodiments have been described in detail above, the present invention may be applied to a system constituted by a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus constituted by one device. For example, a computer system including a printer, a facsimile, a PC, a server, and a client.

  The present invention supplies a software program that implements the functions of the above-described embodiments directly or remotely to a system or apparatus, and a computer included in the system reads and executes the supplied program code. Can also be achieved.

  Accordingly, since the functions and processes of the present invention are implemented by a computer, the program code itself installed in the computer also implements the present invention. That is, the computer program itself for realizing the functions and processes is also one aspect of the present invention.

  In this case, the program may be in any form as long as it has a program function, such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS.

  Examples of the recording medium for supplying the program include a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW. Examples of the recording medium include a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM, a DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD-R), and the like.

  The program may be downloaded from a homepage on the Internet using a browser on a client computer. That is, the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function may be downloaded from the home page to a recording medium such as a hard disk. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server that allows a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer may be a constituent requirement of the present invention.

  Further, the program of the present invention may be encrypted and stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM and distributed to users. In this case, only the user who cleared the predetermined condition is allowed to download the key information to be decrypted from the homepage via the Internet, decrypt the program encrypted with the key information, execute it, and install the program on the computer May be.

  Further, the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized by the computer executing the read program. Note that an OS or the like running on the computer may perform part or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program. Of course, also in this case, the functions of the above-described embodiments can be realized.

  Furthermore, the program read from the recording medium may be written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Based on the instructions of the program, a CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit may perform part or all of the actual processing. In this way, the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image processing system 100 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the control structure of SFP30 which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 6 is a diagram showing an operation mode input screen 310 on the operation unit 1009 of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an ID input screen 320 on the operation unit 1009 of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an error screen 330 on the operation unit 1009 of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. It is a figure explaining ID authority information 400 concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation screen 510 displayed after the user's authentication which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the selection screen 520 displayed when the remote copy which concerns on 1st Embodiment is selected. It is a figure which shows the confirmation screen 530 for performing the remote service which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the content of the priority table 600 which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the internal information of the accounting setting buffer 700 which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing procedure of the remote copy service which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 6 is a diagram illustrating a control configuration of an MFP 20 according to a second embodiment. FIG. It is a figure which shows the ID card authentication screen 540 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the search screen 550 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the search result screen 560 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

100: Image processing system 10, 20, 40: MFP
30: SFP
500: Network

Claims (10)

An image processing system in which a plurality of image processing devices are connected via a network, and the plurality of image processing devices cooperate to form an image,
For each ID information for identifying a user, service information indicating whether or not each image processing apparatus is permitted to provide a service for providing image formation by counting the amount of use to enable charging, and an image Storage means for storing a priority table in which priorities of image processing apparatuses for accumulating count information based on the contents of image formation after formation is set;
Using the service information and the priority table corresponding to the user ID information, the count information is stored in an image processing apparatus that is permitted to perform the service and that has a high priority. Counting destination selection means for selecting as an image processing device to be
A count information storage unit configured to store the count information by transmitting the count information to the selected image processing apparatus when image formation is executed in cooperation with the plurality of image processing apparatuses; A featured image processing system. The storage means further stores the ID information and password,
Authentication means for performing authentication by determining whether or not the ID information and the password input by a user from an input device provided in the image processing apparatus are stored in the storage means;
Display control means for generating and displaying a selection screen for allowing the user to select an image processing apparatus that performs image formation using the service information corresponding to the user ID information;
Further comprising output destination selection means for selecting an image processing apparatus that performs image formation from information input to the input device via the selection screen;
The counting destination selecting means is
In addition to the service information and the priority table, the count information is obtained by using information on an image processing apparatus that inputs image data to be image-formed and information on an image processing apparatus selected by the output destination selection unit. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein an image processing apparatus for storing the image is selected. The priority table is
3. The priority order is set higher in the order of an image processing apparatus that executes image formation, an image processing apparatus that inputs the image data, and another image processing apparatus connected to the network. Image processing system. The authentication means includes
When the input ID information is not stored in the storage unit, it is determined whether or not the ID information is stored in the storage unit provided in another image processing apparatus connected via the network. The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein authentication is performed by performing authentication. The authentication means includes
When the input ID information is not stored in the storage means, a transmission means for transmitting the ID information to another image processing apparatus connected via the network,
The other image processing apparatus includes:
3. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a reply unit that determines whether or not the transmitted ID information is stored in its own storage unit, and returns a determination result to the image processing apparatus that has transmitted the ID information. Or the image processing system of 3.   The image processing system according to claim 4, further comprising a prohibiting unit that prohibits image formation when the authentication fails or when there is no image processing apparatus that stores the count information. .   The image processing system according to claim 2, further comprising reading means for reading information of an IC card storing the ID information and the password.   8. The count information according to claim 1, wherein the count information includes at least a type of the image forming mode, a type of the recording material used for the image formation, and a number of the recording materials used for the image formation. The image processing system according to claim 1.   9. The image processing system according to claim 8, wherein the number of recording materials used for image formation is the number of recording materials on which image formation has been normally performed. A control method of an image processing system in which a plurality of image processing devices are connected via a network, and the plurality of image processing devices cooperate to form an image,
For each ID information for identifying a user, service information indicating whether or not each image processing apparatus is permitted to provide a service for providing image formation by counting the amount of use to enable charging, and an image An image processing apparatus that is permitted to use the service using a priority table that sets the priority order of image processing apparatuses that accumulate count information based on the contents of the image formation after the formation is performed, and Selecting an image processing device having a high priority as an image processing device for storing the count information;
When image formation is executed, transmitting the count information indicating the content of the executed image formation to the selected image processing apparatus, thereby storing the count information. A control method for an image processing system.

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